The Best Low Fat Treats: Skinny Snacks That Fit Your Diet

Consumer Reports on snacks that don't pack on pounds or compromise on taste.

ByABC News via logo
October 5, 2009, 12:13 PM

Oct. 6, 2009— -- These days, it seems as if every snack now comes in a handy 100-calorie pack. But it's important to keep your skinny snacks low in fat and low in calories, not just one or the other.

The experts at Consumer Reports put some skinny snacks to the test by sampling dozens of lower-fat treats and their comparatively high-fat counterparts. What they found are a variety of lower-fat, lower calorie treats that won't compromise your sweet tooth.

Whether it's chips, granola or cheese that satisfies your midday munchies, Consumer Reports has found the brands for your health-minded lifestyle. Plus, many of these snacks are easy on your wallet as well as your waistline.

Consumer Reports senior projects editor Mandy Walker stopped by "Good Morning America" to share some of the magazines favorite lower calorie treats.

"We tasted 60 different products that are lower calorie," she said. "We have the winners that are worth a try."

Check out the Consumer Reports Web site for more details and pick up the November issue for more lower fat snacks.

Ritz Reduced Fat crackers:This classic cracker is the most budget-friendly, costing only 15 cents per serving. Not only that, but they go easy on your diet, packing 70 calories and 2 grams of fat per serving.

"A nice buttery flavor," Walker said.

Triscuit Reduced Fat Crackers: Try this cracker that tacks on only 3 grams of fat and 140 calories per serving.

Kashi TLC Original 7 Grain:If you're looking to add some grain to your diet, then try these. At 130 calories and 2 grams of fat, it's a great way to put some good grains in your body for only 37 cents per serving.

Special K Multi-Grain: This grain cracker goes even easier on you, with 2 grams of fat, and 90 calories at 57 cents per serving.

Cracker Barrel White Sharp Cheddar With 2 Percent Milk: It's tough to find cheese that isn't loaded with fat. Instead of the whole fat, opt for the 2 percent reduced fat Vermont cheddar, which drops the calorie count on the food label to 90 calories. Plus, there are only 6 grams of fat and 3.5 grams of saturated fat in this lighter version. And don't fret the price tag -- this healthy option costs 47 cents per serving.

Sargento Cheddar 2 Percent Milk: Another healthy option if white cheddar doesn't satisfy your taste for cheese, this cheddar packs a modest 80 calories with 6 grams of fat and 4 grams of saturated fat, and costs 46 cents per serving.

"Our tasters found they were smooth and flavorful," Walker said.